Nikki Garcia, wife of “Dancing with the Stars” professional dancer Artem Chigvintsev, is requesting privacy following his recent arrest for domestic violence. Garcia’s representative released a statement saying, “This is a private matter, and Nikki asks for privacy for her and her family at this time.”
Chigvintsev was taken into custody on Thursday around 10 a.m. for felony domestic violence, as indicated by Napa County jail records. The 42-year-old was released later that day after posting a $25,000 bail. He has been charged under California penal code 273.5(a), which prohibits inflicting injury on a spouse, cohabitant, or parenting partner during incidents of domestic violence.
The Napa County Sheriff’s Department reported that they responded to a domestic violence call in Yountville and arrested Chigvintsev without resistance. His booking photograph was shared with the media, and he was held at the Napa County Jail on suspicion of domestic violence. Following his release at approximately 2:15 p.m. PT, authorities confirmed he was cooperative throughout the process.
Details surrounding the alleged victim have not been disclosed, though the Sheriff’s Department stated the individual is being given ample time to process the situation before further questioning by detectives. They noted the victim has provided initial information to deputies.
Chigvintsev, originally from Russia, has been a competitor on “Dancing with the Stars” for 12 seasons. He notably won the Mirrorball Trophy during season 29 with Kaitlyn Bristowe and competed alongside Charity Lawson in the recently concluded season 32, finishing fourth. He and Garcia met while competing on season 25 of the show and tied the knot in August 2022. The couple has a four-year-old son, Matteo.
Recently, the couple celebrated their second wedding anniversary, with Garcia sharing a heartfelt video on Instagram capturing their special day. She reflected on her feelings for Chigvintsev, indicating that a significant song played during their conversation helped her realize she was falling in love with him.
Chigvintsev also marked their anniversary on Instagram, sharing wedding photos and expressing his deep affection for Garcia.
ABC, the network that airs “Dancing with the Stars,” has chosen not to comment on the situation.